The North Face Hammerhead Backpack - 730cu in - 2008

I love this pack for long-ish mountain bike rides (but I use it on short ones, too)--I can fit a pump and spare tire and small tool, etc., in the same compartment with the water, and then I just use the bungees to put a light jacket on the outside, & snacks in the snack pocket. My only advice is not to store water in the bladder when you're done for the day (overnight, etc.)....I feel like it wears down the seals over time and makes it a bit more drip-prone.

I bought this pack for a spring break trip to Moab in Utah and it worked great. The 3 liter capacity for water keeps you hydrated all day and the mesh in the back lets air flow through so that your back doesn't get a nice back sweat stain. And it keeps the water separated off your back so it doesn't get warm. The larger compartment of the pack allows for a good size sweatshirt or jacket along with your bike gear needs. The two water bottle holders on both sides work well and are not impeded upon from the interior compartments. The ability to strap this pack tightly to your body is great with both chest and waist straps so when you're really pushing it on the trail it does not sway to and from your body. The magnet keeps the nozzle in an easy to get to position and not waving around all the time. Also, the 90 degree lock on the mouthpiece guarantees unwanted spills from ever happening. All in all, this bag gets the job done with ease.

I have yet to use the pack on an expedition, but am very pleased with it thus far. Just to warn some shoppers: keep in mind that the pack is more stiff than others because of the mesh trampoline back panel and an X-Vent frame - great for hot days. This means that the bottom of the pack needs to rest right below the waistline on the back; so people with short torsos may find that this pack rides too far up. Tons of storage opportunities for a small pack!

Provided you are only out for a day or you pack very lightly, then this hydration pack is perfect for you. The valve doesn't leak, the main pocket is large enough for a some food and a few articles of clothing, and it's very comfortable and lightweight. The convenience of the magnet for the hydration valve is pretty nice and the bungee cord comes in handy for rain jackets and other layers.

This sucker is the most-used item in my gear closet. Great on a bike, on the motorcycle, hiking, skiing, you name it. It's that "just right" size for a daypack that you can get your food and layers into it, while still having the mesh stretchy bit and the bungees for random crap you find or have to carry for your useless buddies with their little weenie camelbaks. The Nalgene reservoir is the bomb as well. Super Super good design that the pack is built around. Buy one, and laugh at the dudes lugging gigunda "daypacks" up the hill.

This is the first pack I have worn since I was in the Army more than 40 years ago. I was pleasantly surprised at how light and comfortable it is. I wore it on a 4 hour hike last week and it was superb. It appears to be well made and has ample storage pockets. All in all, I am very happy with it.